Sallu Swaray
30 October 2009
The Minister of Labor, Cllr.Tiawan Gongloe says labor is a valuable commodity on the job market and as such, those who buy it must pay valuable price.
Speaking Tuesday when he paid a visit for the first time to the headquarters of the Liberia Labor Congress on Somalia Drive in Gardnerville to acquaint himself with activities of the Labour Congress. Mr. Gongloe said it is a shame for a union to loose a case with an employer on the basis of not knowing the law.
He indicated that a strong union is one that is knowledgeable of its constitution and the Labor Practices Law of the country, but called on members of the Liberia Labor Congress to always respect and uphold their union's constitution. Mr. Gongloe noted that there is a need for the union's leader to encourage workers discipline and good work ethics that would make workers in-dispensable to employers in Liberia.
He added that the Liberia Labor Congress members that anti-corruption measures are not only applicable to government officials, but are also applicable to worker organizations of the country. Mr. Gongloe cautioned trade union leaders to ensure that transparency and accountability remain the hallmark in their day to day activities.
He reiterated that the Labor Ministry under his administration will not interfere in trade union matter, but warned that the ministry will not be intimidated by any of its social partners, workers or employers organizations in up holding the law, regulations and in promoting government's effort to create a good business climate in Liberia as a way of lifting Liberian out of poverty.
The Labor Minister anticipated that Regulation # 17 issued by the ministry is not intended to raise money for the government, but it is to ensure that preference is given to Liberians for employment in their own country. He stressed that this is the least any government can do for its people or citizens.
The President of the Liberia Labor Congress, Moses Barwor thanked the minister for the visit and recounted the numerous assistance the Ministry of Labor has provided the Liberia Labor Congress since its formation as a National Umbrella Organization of all labor unions in Liberia.
Mr. Barwor said that his organization will support the Ministry of Labor to develop laws that are intended to promote decent work programs and job creation for Liberia. During the visit and meeting, Labor Minister Tiawan Gongloe accepted request to visit the National Labor Center at least once in every two months.
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